Publication

Abstract : We read with interest the scoping review on human coronavirus infections affecting in the nervous system of children by Singer et al.1 The authors highlighted that the neurological manifestations of human coronavirus infections (including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 [SARS-CoV-2]) can be severe in children with a possible bearing on long-term neurodevelopment. The long-term impact of these infections is not known and needs to be evaluated. The authors also provided an age-related clinical practice guide for pediatricians for early identification of potential neurodevelopmental impairment. We would like to add a few points. Besides the identification of neurodevelopmental impairment, the initiation of early intervention, multisensory stimulation, and close follow-up are also important. Also, the long-term effects of prenatal exposure to SARS-CoV2 is unknown. Similar to other acquired brain injuries, the longitudinal general movements assessment (GMA) may help predict neurodevelopmental outcomes in prenatally or postnatally (in the neonatal period and early infancy) acquired SARS-CoV-2 infection.2 , 3 GMA refers to the assessment of spontaneous movement repertoire present from early fetal life to the first half of infancy. Motor optimality score, a semiquantitative measure of motor repertoire, can reliably predict future motor function and provide a window for early intervention.2 GMA may also be useful in the acute state. General movements are usually absent or altered in acute encephalopathy, but if normally expressed, they may be reassuring. With teleneurology in widespread use due to pandemic restrictions, even home videos can be used for GMA on follow-up.4 , 5 A study on GMA along with motor optimality score for the prediction of neurodevelopmental outcomes in COVID-19 is going on at our center.